Three placed in probation program

Three first time offenders in the criminal justice system were placed in Carbon County's Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition (ARD) probation program on Tuesday by Judge Joseph J. Matika.

If a person successfully completes all conditions of the program their record is wiped clean. However, if they fail to complete it or are revoked from it, then they will face trial on all pending charges. A person does not admit guilt in entering the program.

The three were placed for a year.

Matthew R. Berger, 21, of Lansford, was placed on a charge of selling or furnising liquor to a minor. He was arrested on Nov. 13, 2012, by Weatherly police.

He was assessed $450 for the cost of the program and ordered to render 50 hours of community service.

Lee Arron Thear, 24, of Nesquehoning, was placed on charges of driving under the influence (DUI) and trespass by vehicle. He was arrested on Nov. 23, 2012, along Catawissa St., by Nesquehoning police. Given a test, the result was .16BAC.

He was assessed $550 and ordered to get a drug and alcohol (D&A) evaluation and follow any recommendation for treatment, license suspended for 60 days, and render 50 hours of community service.

Robert L. Tulay, 58, of Weatherly, was placed on a DUI charge. He was arrested on Dec. 14, 2012, along Railroad St., by Nesquehoning police. Given a test, the result was .26BAC.

He was assessed $550 and ordered to get a D&A evaluation, zero tolerance for D&A use, license suspended for 60 days, and render 50 hours of community service.

Each defendant must also pay court costs, which average about $1,000, and pay a $50 per month supervision fee while in the program.